philanthropy

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Case for Support – a Valuable, Essential Tool

Case for support
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A case for support is crucial for a charity because it serves as the cornerstone of its fundraising and communication strategies. It articulates why the organisation exists, what it aims to achieve, and why donors, volunteers, or stakeholders should invest their time, money, and energy into its mission. Here is why a Case for Support is so important:

1. Clarifies the Mission and Vision

  • A strong case for support clearly defines the charity’s purpose, goals, and the specific impact it seeks to make. This clarity ensures that everyone, from staff to donors, understands and aligns with the organisation’s objectives.

2. Builds Trust and Credibility

  • By presenting facts, compelling stories, and a transparent explanation of how funds will be used, it reassures potential supporters that their contributions will be handled responsibly and lead to meaningful outcomes.

3. Inspires Action

  • The emotional and logical appeals in a well-crafted case for support motivate individuals and organisations to contribute. It helps them see themselves as part of the solution to a pressing issue.

4. Aligns Stakeholders

  • It serves as a unified message for staff, board members, and volunteers, ensuring consistency in how the organisation communicates with the public, funders, and partners.

5. Supports Fundraising Efforts

  • A case for support is the foundation for grant applications, donor pitches, sponsorship proposals, and marketing campaigns. It provides the core messaging that can be tailored for various audiences and platforms.

6. Differentiates Your Charity

  • In a competitive nonprofit landscape, it highlights what makes your organisation unique and why your approach to addressing an issue is worth supporting over others.

7. Demonstrates Impact

  • It shows potential supporters the tangible difference their contributions will make, providing examples of past successes and outlining future plans.

Key Elements of a Strong Case for Support:

  • A Compelling Problem Statement: Why does this issue matter?
  • The Solution: How your charity addresses the issue effectively.
  • Impact Evidence: Stories, data, and testimonials that showcase success.
  • Call to Action: Specific ways people can help and what their involvement will achieve.

A well-crafted case for support not only drives donations but also builds lasting relationships with stakeholders, ensuring the charity’s sustainability and growth.

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How Philanthropy Can Help People Lead a Purposeful Life

Philanthropy

In today’s fast-paced and often self-centred world, finding a sense of purpose can be challenging. Many people search for meaning in various aspects of their lives, from their careers to personal relationships. One powerful way to cultivate a sense of purpose is through philanthropy. Engaging in philanthropic activities not only helps those in need but also enriches the lives of the givers in profound ways. Here’s how philanthropy can help people lead a purposeful life.

1. Creating a Positive Impact

Making a Difference: One of the most significant benefits of philanthropy is the ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s through donating money, volunteering time, or sharing expertise, philanthropic efforts contribute to solving societal problems and improving communities. Knowing that your actions have positively impacted someone else’s life can provide a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Empowering Others: Philanthropy empowers not only the recipients but also the givers. By helping others achieve their potential, philanthropists contribute to the creation of a more equitable and just society. This empowerment fosters a sense of interconnectedness and purpose, as individuals see the broader impact of their efforts.

2. Building Stronger Connections

Fostering Relationships: Engaging in philanthropic activities often involves working with others who share similar values and goals. This collaboration can lead to the formation of strong, meaningful relationships. Whether through volunteering with a local organisation or participating in fundraising events, philanthropy creates opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Enhancing Social Networks: Philanthropy can also expand social networks, introducing individuals to new people and communities. These connections can lead to personal and professional growth, enriching one’s life with diverse perspectives and experiences.

3. Personal Growth and Development

Developing Skills: Philanthropic activities often require various skills, such as leadership, communication, and project management. By engaging in these activities, individuals can develop and hone these skills, contributing to their personal growth. The challenges faced and overcome in philanthropic endeavors can also build resilience and problem-solving abilities.

Gaining Perspective: Philanthropy exposes individuals to different life experiences and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding. This broader worldview can lead to greater self-awareness and a deeper appreciation for one’s own life, helping individuals to find meaning and purpose.

4. Enhancing Mental and Emotional Well-being

Boosting Happiness: Research has shown that giving and helping others can boost happiness and overall well-being. Acts of kindness and generosity trigger the release of endorphins, creating a “helper’s high.” This positive emotional state contributes to a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction in life.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Engaging in philanthropic activities can also reduce stress and anxiety. Helping others shifts the focus away from one’s own problems and fosters a sense of gratitude. This shift in perspective can lead to improved mental health and a more balanced, purposeful life.

5. Leaving a Legacy

Creating Lasting Change: Philanthropy allows individuals to leave a lasting legacy by contributing to causes and initiatives that align with their values and passions. This legacy can take many forms, from establishing a charitable foundation to supporting educational programs or environmental conservation efforts. Knowing that your contributions will have a lasting impact can provide a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Inspiring Future Generations: Philanthropic actions can inspire future generations to continue the tradition of giving and helping others. By modeling philanthropic behavior, individuals can influence their children, grandchildren, and community members to lead purposeful lives rooted in generosity and compassion.

Conclusion

Philanthropy offers a powerful pathway to a purposeful life. By creating positive impacts, building strong connections, fostering personal growth, enhancing mental and emotional well-being, and leaving a lasting legacy, individuals can find deeper meaning and fulfillment. Engaging in philanthropic activities not only benefits those in need but also enriches the lives of the givers, helping them lead lives filled with purpose and joy. Embrace the power of philanthropy and discover how giving back can transform your life and the world around you.

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Religion – An Influencer of Philanthropic Giving

Philanthropy, rooted in the desire to promote the welfare of others, manifests in various forms across societies and cultures. One significant influencer of charitable giving is religion. Faith-based traditions and beliefs have historically played a profound role in shaping philanthropic attitudes and behaviors worldwide.

Let’s delve into the multifaceted relationship between religion and philanthropic giving.

Moral and Ethical Foundations

Religious teachings often emphasise the importance of compassion, generosity, and helping those in need. Many faiths encourage adherents to practice charitable giving as a moral and ethical obligation. The guiding principles of love, kindness, and empathy, deeply ingrained in religious doctrines, inspire believers to contribute to the well-being of others through philanthropy.

Encouragement and Mandates

Across various religions, scriptures and teachings encourage followers to engage in acts of charity. For instance, in Christianity, the concept of tithing involves donating a portion of one’s income to the church or charitable causes. In Islam, the practice of Zakat requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to help those less fortunate. Similarly, other religions have their own charitable principles that guide believers in their philanthropic endeavors.

Community and Social Responsibility

Religious communities often serve as centers for social cohesion and support. Faith-based organisations and institutions play a significant role in channeling philanthropic efforts. They provide platforms for organising charitable initiatives, fostering a sense of communal responsibility, and mobilising resources to address societal needs, from poverty alleviation to disaster relief.

Faith-Based Charitable Organisations

Many charitable organisations and nonprofits are directly affiliated with religious institutions or are founded upon religious principles. These entities often carry out philanthropic activities aligned with their religious teachings. They focus on initiatives such as providing education, healthcare, humanitarian aid, and support for marginalised communities, guided by their faith-based values.

Impact on Giving Patterns

Studies suggest that individuals who identify strongly with a religious affiliation tend to be more inclined to engage in philanthropic giving. Religion can influence the choice of causes or organisations that individuals support, the frequency of donations, and the overall magnitude of charitable contributions.

Diversity of Religious Giving

Religious philanthropy spans a wide spectrum, from individual acts of kindness and donations to large-scale institutional charity programs. It encompasses diverse forms of giving, including monetary donations, volunteerism, fundraising events, and in-kind contributions, all driven by religious convictions.

Challenges and Criticisms

While religion can inspire significant acts of generosity and humanitarianism, it can also be a source of contention. Critics sometimes raise concerns about the politicisation of charitable giving, potential discrimination in funding allocation based on religious beliefs, and issues related to transparency and accountability in some religiously affiliated charities.

In conclusion, the role of religion in philanthropic giving is multifaceted and deeply ingrained in many cultures and societies. While it serves as a powerful motivator for charitable actions, it also presents challenges and complexities. Understanding the interplay between religion and philanthropy sheds light on the diverse motivations behind giving and underscores the importance of respecting various belief systems in the pursuit of global welfare and social betterment.

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Debunking the Myths of Major Gifts Fundraising

person holding silver bitcoin coin

Major gift fundraising is a crucial strategy for nonprofit organisations to secure significant financial support. These substantial donations can propel a nonprofit’s mission and impact to new heights. However, like any fundraising approach, major gifts fundraising is not immune to myths and misconceptions. In this blog post, we will debunk some common myths surrounding major gift fundraising.

Myth 1: Major Gifts Are Only for Large Nonprofits

One of the most persistent myths is that major gift fundraising is exclusively for large, well-established nonprofits. In reality, organisations of all sizes can successfully solicit major gifts. Smaller nonprofits often build personalised relationships with donors, which can be a unique and appealing aspect of their approach.

Myth 2: Major Gifts Are Only for Wealthy Donors

It’s a common misconception that major gifts are solely obtained from extremely wealthy donors. While some major gift donors are affluent, others may have a strong connection to the nonprofit’s mission or a passion for the cause. Major gifts are not solely defined by the donor’s wealth but by the significance of their contribution relative to their capacity.

Myth 3: Major Gifts Fundraising Is Transactional

Another myth is that major gifts fundraising is primarily transactional, with donors giving and nonprofits receiving without ongoing engagement. In reality, major gift fundraising often involves building deep and meaningful relationships with donors. Effective cultivation and stewardship are essential for lasting partnerships.

Myth 4: Major Gifts Fundraising Requires a Large Staff

Some believe that major gift fundraising requires a sizable staff and significant financial resources. While resources can facilitate the process, organisations can be successful with a smaller team. What’s most important is having dedicated and skilled staff and volunteers who can build and nurture relationships with major gift donors.

Myth 5: It’s Only About Asking for Money

Major gift fundraising isn’t solely about asking for money. It’s about building authentic connections and aligning the donor’s passion with the nonprofit’s mission. Donors often want to understand the impact of their gifts and be engaged in the organisation’s work beyond just financial support.

Myth 6: Major Gifts Can Be Solicited Quickly

There’s a myth that major gifts can be solicited and secured quickly. In reality, major gift cultivation can be a lengthy process. Building trust and rapport with donors often takes time. Nonprofits should be patient and committed to the long-term cultivation of major gift relationships.

Myth 7: Major Gift Donors Want Public Recognition

It’s not always true that major gift donors seek public recognition for their contributions. Some major donors prefer to give anonymously or privately. Nonprofits should respect donors’ preferences regarding acknowledgment and publicity.

Myth 8: Major Gifts Fundraising Is Only for Capital Campaigns

While major gifts are often associated with capital campaigns, they are not limited to such initiatives. Major gift fundraising can support a wide range of nonprofit projects, from program expansion to operational sustainability. Donors can be motivated to give to various aspects of an organisation’s work.

Myth 9: Major Gift Fundraising Is Too Time-Consuming

While building major gift relationships does require time and effort, it’s not necessarily excessively time-consuming. Nonprofits can establish efficient processes, engage dedicated volunteers, and leverage technology to streamline major gift fundraising efforts.

Myth 10: Major Gifts Fundraising Is Unsustainable

Some may believe that major gift fundraising is not a sustainable source of revenue. However, when approached strategically and coupled with strong donor stewardship, major gifts can be a stable and recurring source of support. Donors often maintain their commitments over time when they see the impact of their gifts.

Conclusion

Major gifts fundraising is a powerful and adaptable strategy that can benefit nonprofits of all sizes. By addressing these myths, organisations can better harness the potential of major gift fundraising to engage their donors, raise significant funds, and further their missions effectively. The key is to build authentic relationships, focus on donor passions, and communicate the impact of their contributions.

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How LGBTQ Individuals Get Involved in the Charity Sector

The LGBTQ community has a rich history of activism, resilience, and social change. Many LGBTQ individuals are passionate about giving back to society and supporting charitable causes. While participation in pride parades and events is a vital aspect of LGBTQ community involvement, there are numerous other ways LGBTQ individuals contribute to the charity sector. In this blog post, we will explore various ways in which LGBTQ individuals like to get involved in philanthropy and give back to their communities.

Volunteerism

Volunteering is a popular way for LGBTQ individuals to engage with charitable organisations. Many offer their time and skills to support causes they are passionate about. LGBTQ volunteers may work at local LGBTQ centres, homeless shelters, food banks, and other organisations that provide essential services to those in need.

Board Membership

LGBTQ individuals often serve on the boards of nonprofit organisations. Their diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise can be invaluable in guiding organisational policies and decision-making. These leadership roles allow them to make a significant impact on the charity sector.

Fundraising

LGBTQ individuals are often passionate fundraisers. They organise events, campaigns, and social gatherings to raise funds for their favourite causes. These efforts range from traditional bake sales to online crowdfunding campaigns, helping nonprofits raise much-needed resources.

Mentorship and Advocacy

Many LGBTQ individuals become mentors and advocates for younger members of the community. They offer guidance and support, particularly to LGBTQ youth who may be struggling with acceptance, coming out, or finding their place in society.

LGBTQ advocates may also work with organisations focused on LGBTQ rights, using their voices and experiences to advance important policy changes and social justice initiatives.

Philanthropy and Donations

Charitable giving is a significant way for LGBTQ individuals to get involved in the charity sector. They contribute financially to organisations that support LGBTQ rights, healthcare, mental health services, and various other causes. Some individuals may establish their LGBTQ-focused foundations or endowments to ensure lasting support for their chosen causes.

Hosting and Supporting LGBTQ Events

LGBTQ individuals often host and support LGBTQ-centric events, including art exhibitions, film festivals, and cultural festivals. These events not only celebrate the LGBTQ community’s talents and diversity but also raise awareness and funds for relevant causes.

Supporting Health Initiatives

Health is a critical focus of LGBTQ charity involvement. Many LGBTQ individuals engage with organisations that provide HIV/AIDS prevention, support for those living with HIV, and LGBTQ-friendly healthcare services. Donating to LGBTQ health initiatives is a powerful way to contribute to the betterment of the community.

Cultural and Arts Contributions

The LGBTQ community has a strong presence in the arts and culture sectors. Many LGBTQ individuals actively contribute to the arts, such as writing, painting, music, and theatre. These artistic expressions often touch on LGBTQ themes and experiences, helping to raise awareness and funds for related causes.

LGBTQ individuals have a rich tradition of philanthropic engagement, with many contributing their time, resources, skills, and voices to various charitable endeavours. Their involvement in the charity sector extends far beyond pride parades and events, encompassing volunteerism, board leadership, fundraising, mentorship, advocacy, financial contributions, and support for LGBTQ health initiatives. By getting involved in these diverse ways, LGBTQ individuals play a vital role in advancing social justice, equality, and acceptance for themselves and the broader community. Their efforts not only make a tangible impact on the charity sector but also contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

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Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: How LGBTIQ Philanthropy Differs

persons hands with rainbow colors

Philanthropy is a powerful force for positive change, but its impact can vary significantly from one community to another. In the LGBTIQ community, philanthropy takes on a unique character and significance, shaped by the community’s history, challenges, and values. In this blog post, we will explore how philanthropy in the LGBTIQ community differs from other communities, shedding light on the profound impact it has on advancing LGBTIQ rights and well-being.

A History of Activism

LGBTIQ philanthropy is deeply rooted in the history of activism and resistance against discrimination and inequality. From the Stonewall riots in 1969 to ongoing battles for LGBTIQ rights, the community’s philanthropic efforts often aim to support social and legal change.

Many LGBTIQ organisations and individuals actively fund and engage in advocacy and civil rights campaigns, fighting for equal treatment and acceptance. This strong link between philanthropy and activism sets LGBTIQ giving apart from philanthropy in many other communities.

Focus on Health and Wellness

LGBTIQ philanthropy often places a significant emphasis on health and wellness initiatives. Historically, the LGBTIQ community has faced higher rates of mental health challenges, substance abuse, and HIV/AIDS. Consequently, philanthropic efforts often prioritise funding for LGBTIQ-focused healthcare services, mental health support, and sexual health education programs.

LGBTIQ-Focused Education

Education is a key pillar of LGBTIQ philanthropy. Many organisations and donors in the LGBTIQ community work to create inclusive educational environments, providing resources and support to LGBTIQ youth and working to eliminate bullying and discrimination in schools.

Support for Homeless LGBTIQ Youth

LGBTIQ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness due to family rejection or discrimination. As a result, many LGBTIQ philanthropists and organisations focus on providing shelter, resources, and support for homeless LGBTIQ youth.

Nonprofit Organisations and Foundations

The LGBTIQ community has seen the establishment of numerous nonprofit organisations and foundations dedicated to addressing specific issues within the community. For example, The Trevor Project focuses on suicide prevention among LGBTIQ youth, while the Elton John AIDS Foundation raises funds to combat HIV/AIDS.

Addressing Intersectionality

LGBTIQ philanthropy recognises the intersectionality of identities. Donors often understand that LGBTIQ individuals can face discrimination on multiple fronts, whether based on race, gender, or disability. Philanthropic efforts aim to support and uplift the most marginalised within the LGBTIQ community.

Inclusivity and Diversity

LGBTIQ philanthropy emphasises inclusivity and diversity within the community. Donors and organisations strive to create spaces where all LGBTIQ identities are valued and celebrated, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.

Pride and Celebration

LGBTIQ philanthropy also includes supporting LGBTIQ cultural events and pride festivals. These events play a vital role in fostering community spirit, celebrating diversity, and raising awareness about LGBTIQ issues.

LGBTIQ philanthropy is a vibrant and dynamic force that distinguishes itself from philanthropy in other communities by its deep connection to activism, focus on health and wellness, emphasis on LGBTIQ-focused education, and commitment to supporting the most marginalised within the LGBTIQ community. Its dedication to inclusivity, diversity, and celebrating LGBTIQ identities contributes to creating a more accepting and equitable world for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The impact of LGBTIQ philanthropy continues to resonate in the ongoing struggle for LGBTIQ rights and acceptance.

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Charity donations are given due to altruistic reasons and others

Charity

Donating to charity is a noble act that can have a profound impact on the lives of those in need. While altruistic reasons such as empathy, compassion, and a desire to help others are some of the most common motivations for giving, there are many other factors that influence people’s charitable giving.

Reasons people give to charity

  1. Tax Benefits
    • For many people, the tax benefits of donating to charity are a significant factor in their decision to give
    • Charitable contributions can result in tax deductions that can lower an individual’s taxable income, potentially reducing the amount of taxes owed
  2. Personal Beliefs and Values
    • People who are deeply committed to certain causes often choose to support organisations that align with their beliefs and values
  3. Social Influence
    • People are often influenced by the giving behaviour of their peers, friends, and family
    • If someone sees that those around them are giving to charity, they may be more likely to follow suit and donate themselves
  4. Reputation
    • For some people, charitable giving is a way to enhance their reputation and demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact on the world
  5. Legacy
    • Many individuals see charitable giving as a way to leave a lasting legacy and make a positive impact on future generations
    • Donors may choose to support organisations that align with their values and beliefs
    • Donors may also align with charities that have a long-term focus on sustainability and impact
  6. Marketing and Advertising
    • Companies often donate to charity as part of their marketing and advertising strategy
    • Such an affiliation will improve the company reputation, build brand loyalty, and attract customers who value social responsibility
  7. Emotional Rewards
    • Charitable giving can provide emotional rewards such as a sense of fulfilment, satisfaction, and gratitude
    • These rewards can be especially meaningful for those who have experienced personal hardships

A 2021 Australian and US study published in Nature Human Behaviour found asking for donations by appealing to the donor’s self-interest may result in more money than appealing to their better nature. Those who received an appeal to self-interest were both more likely to give and gave more than those in the control group. The effect was most pronounced for those who hadn’t given prior.

In conclusion, while altruistic reasons are a significant driver of charitable giving, there are many other factors that influence why people choose to donate to charity. Understanding these reasons can help organizations create more effective fundraising campaigns and inspire more people to give.

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University of Wisconsin strong at stating its case for support

The University of Wisconsin has always run very big fundraising campaigns and is strong at stating its case for support. The University of Wisconsin Foundation and the Wisconsin Alumni Association have had great success at mobilising their alumni base to support the university. They do this by telling very good stories.

Case for support In the Winter 2016 issue of On Wisconsin, Jenny Price ’96 wrote an article called “A Long To-Do List” where “Chancellor Rebecca Blank says it is critical for the next (state) budget to include funding to complete needed repairs and upkeep on buildings across campus”.

The article tells the story of a building boom that happened across most American universities after World War II. It states that 40 percent of the UW campus buildings were constructed in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Those structures, because of the speed in which they were constructed, have not lasted as long as buildings built in other periods.

Simply put, the University of Wisconsin has a backlog of maintenance that has to be done. The price tag amounts to $1.2 billion (yes, billion). The Wisconsin state government has apparently not invested in the repairs over the years and has cut back in may other areas, including academics.

Another article titled Conversation Michael Knetter is an interview with the former dean of the Wisconsin School of Business and now CEO of the UW Foundation. Knetter addresses the concerns alumni have about the UWs relationship with the state legislature.  The university is in the public phase of a $3.2 billion (yes, billion) capital campaign. These funds are to be raised by 2020 and the UW Foundation is halfway to this goal. This article ties in nicely with Price’s article and I am sure this is no accident.Case for support

Both articles really concerned me because they highlight the fact that the Wisconsin state legislature is not supporting higher education in the way the government has in the past. Additionally, the articles highlighted the fact that philanthropy is even more critical for the University of Wisconsin today than it has been in the past. The articles motivated me and, at the same time, left me with a feeling of great nervousness for the University of Wisconsin. In the end, that’s the real purpose of a case for support.

 

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Include a Charity Week in Australia

Snip20160904_15 September is Include a Charity Week in Australia. What is your charity doing to be part of this campaign?

Include a Charity Week draws attention to gifts in wills and offers visibility to the importance of donors, solicitors, and charities working together to increase the number of individuals who are leaving a bequest to charity.

Include a Charity is a collaboration of many of Australia’s favourite charities, covering a range of causes and aspects of our community, from medical research, education, animal welfare, the environment, the arts and more.

The goal of the Include a Charity campaign is to encourage more people to leave a gift in their Will, increasing the funds invested in the charitable sector and thereby increasing the positive impact these organisations have on our society.

In 2015, Include a Charity became part of Fundraising Institute Australia. The campaign relies on the support of its campaign supporters, volunteers and partners, who enable us to promote this important area of philanthropy.

Celebrate philanthropy. Celebrate Include a Charity Week by joining in this wonderful campaign.

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Companies taking pride in philanthropy

Snip20160504_23Flying between Sydney and Melbourne this week, I was struck by two promotions showing companies taking pride in their philanthropy.

Qantas are continuing to promote its program for UNICEF. A giving envelope is placed in each of the headsets available for taking upon boarding. This long-standing program has raised millions of dollars for UNICEF. Often times, Qantas flight attendants make an appeal through on-board announcements for people to give their loose change. I have written about this terrific cause related marketing program prior.

Snip20160504_24Second, I witnessed the Westpac Bicentennial Foundation $100 million scholarship fund billboards throughout the Sydney and Melbourne airports. Lighted billboards highlight the promise Westpac have made to back 100 people with the “imagination to shape Australia’s future”. Westpac have committed to giving 100 scholarships each year…”forever”.

Imagine the “hidden philanthropy” which occurs where consumers are not aware of the good many companies are doing in Australia. It’s nice to see Qantas and Westpac promoting their philanthropic efforts and, in turn, encouraging other corporations to follow their lead.

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